Pinay ‘X-Factor Israel’ Rose Fostanes winner returns to PH

MANILA, Philippines – X-Factor: Israel winner Rose Fostanes has arrived in Manila for her first visit back home since winning the reality show.

Fostanes arrived at around 7 in the evening, February 26. (READ: Pinay caregiver Rose Fostanes wins ‘X Factor Israel’)

She is set to spend some time with her family and pay a courtesy call to Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Menashe Bar-on in the coming days.

From caregiver to star

Rose captivated the hearts of Israelis, as well as her fellow Filipinos, through her voice, which was repeatedly described by the show’s hosts as “powerful” and “moving” throughout the show. Rose was best known for her soulful renditions of modern and even classic songs. 

The caregiver, who is working for an Israeli family since 2008, auditioned for the show dreaming for a better life for her family. She bagged a slot in the show after singing Shirley Bassey’s “This is My Life”during the auditions.

It left one of the judges speechless while her future mentor, Shiri Maimon called her performance ‘perfect.’ (READ: Rose Fostanes’ ‘X Factor’ journey)

This was followed by several stellar performances that earned her top marks in the some of the following episodes. During the finals, Rose performed Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” – a song often referred to as ‘cursed’ in the Philippines because of the violent incidents related to people who covered the tune.

But a cursed song was not enough to stand in her way of winning the competition as “My Way” became the reason for Rose’s win.

Throughout the competition, Rose spoke of her humble begginings and was proud of her job as a caregiver. In Israel, she reportedly cares for an elderly woman and despite winning, Rose came back to the woman and her family to continue caring for her.

Rose’s now famous performance in the final episode was witnessed by Rose’s sister Nancy, Philippine Ambassador to Israel Generoso Calonge, and Rose’s girlfriend, Mel Adel, who lives in the Philippines. 

Right after her win, an issue came up about Rose’s caregiver visa in Israel. Her paperwork to stay in the country appeared to prevent her from singing professionally in the country. 

However, the Israeli government was quick to clarify that there are measures Rose and the show’s organizers can take to fix her visa. (READ: ‘X-Factor Israel’ winner Rose Fostanes’ visa type can be changed, says ambassador)

Watch Rose’s winning performance here:

– Rappler.com